Just as surely as the end of October brings the brilliant foliage, and the World Series it also brings the Rays of Hope.

Once again as the nation observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month, thousands of walkers and runners, will hit the pavement on Oct. 28 in Springfield and Greenfield to support breast health in Western Massachusetts as part of Baystate Health Foundation’s annual Rays of Hope fund-raiser.

Last year, some 21,000 combined walkers and runners from more than 600 teams, raised more than $1 million for research and treatment programs. Since 1994 when the walk was founded, more than $10 million has gone to Baystate Regional Cancer Program’s Comprehensive Breast Center and other organizations throughout the region.

This year brings important findings announced last month from the Cancer Genome Atlas along with the Rays of Hope Center for Breast Cancer Research in Springfield that four genetic subtypes of breast cancer have been identified and many of the genetic mutations linked to cancer have been mapped. Scientists believe their research will result in new and different drugs to treat some breast cancers as well as more precise treatments that target the newly identified key genetic mutations.

As the research marches on so too does the need for funding to extend the frontiers of science, as well as for counseling and support for those cancer patients currently undergoing treatment.

It is a rare family that has not been touched in some way by breast cancer and a rare cancer victim who has not been helped by the selfless contributions of health professionals, social service workers, clergymen and community members who have made their journey a bit more bearable.

We encourage everyone to participate in this year’s cancer walk in the hope that just around the corner lies the journey’s end.